WILLIAMS, CA – Thomas W. Griffith, 66, passed away Tuesday, March 6, 2018, at Enloe Hospital, Chico, CA after a long and courageous battle with paralysis. Tom was born May 14, 1951, to Mary Elma (Seaver) and Robert Lawton Griffith. He attended school in Williams from K-12th grade, then attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and later Chico State University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Science and Ag Business, as well as an Ag Teaching Credential.
In 1975, Tom married Lisa Montgomery. They had one son Matthew. Matthew inherited Tom’s love and skill with horses and cattle.
Tom grew up on his family’s farm and went on to farm with his father after graduating from college. Tom and his brother-in-law, Doug Parker, started Griffith and Parker in 1977 and farmed and ranched together successfully until 2004 when Tom and his son Matthew started Griffith Livestock, a California and Oregon based cattle operation.
A very civic minded person, Tom was a Williams Unified School Board member, serving as board president, past president of the Colusa Horseman’s Association and served as Williams Fire Commissioner. He also volunteered for the Army National Guard from 1971 to 1977.
Tom was an avid team roper and was a member of the CCPRA, USTRC and ACTRA. He was also a member of the Colusa Farm Bureau, Glenn-Colusa and California Cattlemen’s Associations.
Tom is survived by his wife, Lisa Griffith; son Matthew Griffith (Julie) of Williams; two grandchildren, Devin and Riley; and sister, Judy Griffith Parker (Doug) of Williams; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Tom was preceded in death by both his parents.
A celebration of Tom’s life was held March 18 at Williams Fire Station and a memorial team roping will be held Sunday, April 15 in Woodland, Calif. (see ad on page 20 for details).
In his memory, contributions may be made to the Thomas Griffith Scholarship Fund. This scholarship will be awarded to young adults pursuing a higher education in Agriculture. Umpqua Bank, 540 Amanda St., Arbuckle, CA 95912.